Sudbury Valley Trustees renews land trust accreditation

Friday

Aug 10, 2018 at 2:12 PM

SUDBURY — Sudbury Valley Trustees recently announced it has renewed its land trust accreditation, signifying that, as part of a network of over 400 accredited land trusts across the nation, it is committed to professional excellence and to maintaining the public’s trust in its conservation work.

Since 1953, SVT has been saving open spaces for wildlife and people in a 36-community region between Boston and Worcester.

“We are a stronger organization for having gone through the rigorous accreditation renewal process,” said Lisa Vernegaard, SVT executive director. “Today, we are even better positioned to work with our partners to protect and care for the vulnerable natural areas in our region.”

SVT provided extensive documentation and was subject to a comprehensive third-party evaluation prior to achieving this distinction. The Land Trust Accreditation Commission awarded renewed accreditation, signifying its confidence that SVT’s lands will be protected forever. SVT has helped to protect more than 8.000 acres of natural area in the region, including the recently conserved Mainstone Farm in Wayland, Wayside Forest in Framingham and Horse Meadows Knoll in Harvard.

“It is exciting to recognize SVT’s continued commitment to national standards by renewing this national mark of distinction,” said Tammara Van Ryn, executive director of the Commission. “Donors and partners can trust the more than 400 accredited land trusts across the country are united behind strong standards and have demonstrated sound finances, ethical conduct, responsible governance, and lasting stewardship.”

A complete list of accredited land trusts and more information about the process and benefits can be found at www.landtrustaccreditation.org.